Comparing E553B - Talc vs E903 - Carnauba wax
Overview
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Found in 119 products
Found in 9,053 products
Search rank & volume
Awareness score
Search volume over time
Interest over time for 4 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Interest over time for 3 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Popular questions
Is talc bad for you?
Food‑grade talc (E553b) that is asbestos‑free is considered safe at permitted levels in foods by major regulators; the main concerns are from inhaling talc dust or contamination with asbestos, not from normal dietary exposure.
What is talcum powder?
Talcum powder is finely ground talc (hydrated magnesium silicate) used as a cosmetic/body powder to absorb moisture and reduce friction; it is distinct from food‑grade talc (E553b) used in foods as an anti‑caking and release agent.
Does talc cause cancer?
Asbestos‑containing talc is carcinogenic, but asbestos‑free talc used in foods has not been shown to cause cancer; perineal use of talc‑based body powders is classified by IARC as possibly carcinogenic (Group 2B).
What is talc used for?
In foods, E553b is used mainly as an anti‑caking, release, and glazing agent to keep powders free‑flowing and to coat products like rice, chewing gum, and confectionery.
Is talcum powder safe?
Asbestos‑free talcum powder is generally considered safe for external use, but avoid inhalation and perineal (genital) application due to potential risks; keep powders away from infants’ faces to prevent breathing problems.
Is carnauba wax edible?
Yes—E903 carnauba wax is an approved food glazing/coating agent and is considered safe at typical food levels; it’s essentially inert and passes through the body undigested.
Is carnauba wax vegan?
Yes—it's a plant-derived wax from the leaves of the carnauba palm and is generally considered vegan.
What is carnauba wax in food?
It’s a plant wax used as a glazing/coating agent to add shine, prevent sticking, and reduce moisture loss on products like candies, chewing gum, chocolate, and some fruits.
Where does carnauba wax come from?
It comes from the leaves of the carnauba palm (Copernicia prunifera) native to northeastern Brazil; the dried leaves are beaten to release the wax, which is then refined.
How long does carnauba wax last?
The wax itself is very stable and can be stored for years if kept cool and dry; on foods, the thin coating lasts through the product’s normal shelf life but doesn’t significantly extend it.